Ranked as the 1541st largest power generation facility in the United States, Eklutna Generation Station plays a modest yet significant role in the Alaskan energy landscape with a capacity of 171 MW. This gas-fired plant, operated by Matanuska Electric Association, was commissioned in 2015 and has quickly established itself as a part of the local energy mix, contributing 0.01% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW from 10,047 total plants. The technology behind Eklutna utilizes natural gas, making it one of the 783 gas plants in the country. This facility complements the regional energy profile significantly, especially given the proximity of other power generation facilities. Within a 50 km radius, the George M Sullivan Generation Plant stands out as the largest nearby facility, operating at 346.9 MW and also utilizing gas as its primary fuel source. In contrast, the Eklutna Hydro Project, with a capacity of 44.4 MW, harnesses hydroelectric power, showcasing the diverse energy sources in the area. Furthermore, the JBER Landfill Gas Power Plant, producing 11.5 MW from waste, adds another layer of renewable energy context to the region. In a national context, Alaska's energy profile is heavily reliant on gas, and Eklutna Generation Station's contribution, though small, aids in meeting local demands while enhancing grid stability. The plant's commissioning in 2015 aligns with a broader trend of modernizing energy infrastructures across the U.S. with cleaner technologies. As the energy sector continues to evolve towards more sustainable practices, Eklutna's role in this transition is critical, especially in a state where energy independence and sustainability are increasingly prioritized.
11 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileGas power generation is a significant component of the global energy landscape, characterized by the use of natural gas to produce electricity. This process typically involves either gas turbines or combined cycle gas plants. In a gas turbine, compressed air is mixed with natural gas and ignited, producing high-temperature exhaust gases that spin a turbine connected to a generator. Combined cycle plants enhance efficiency by utilizing both gas and steam turbines. After the gas turbine generates electricity, the waste heat is used to produce steam, which drives a steam turbine, thereby maximizing energy extraction from the fuel.
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